Church of St James

Church of St James is a medieval place of worship in Chipping Campden with classic Gothic features from the 15th century. The building contains a broad nave, a chancel, two side aisles, and a sturdy west tower decorated with stone pinnacles.

A church has stood on this site since 1180, but the current building was constructed in the 15th century using wealth from the wool trade. The gradual expansion reflects the village's growing importance during the medieval period.

The interior features monuments to wealthy wool and silk merchants whose businesses shaped the village's prosperity. These memorials show how local traders left their mark on the church and community.

The interior is open for prayer on most days and you can enjoy the calm and layout at your own pace. Sunday services take place regularly, so the space is busier if you prefer a more active experience.

The west tower retains building elements from its Norman predecessor, showing how medieval builders incorporated earlier structures into new designs. This mix of different periods makes the tower a genuine layer cake of architectural history.

Location: Chipping Campden

Inception: 11 century

GPS coordinates: 52.05330,-1.77577

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:26